The Final Master

The Final Master

Year: 2016

Runtime: 109 min

Language: English

Director: Xu Haofeng

ActionDrama

A Wing Chun master’s apprentice sets out to build a renowned martial arts school, fulfilling his mentor's wishes. His efforts are complicated by a past of secret triumphs against eight powerful schools. As he pursues his goal, he becomes entangled in a dangerous struggle for dominance, uncovering hidden agendas and facing escalating risks that threaten everything he values.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Final Master (2016)

Trace every key event in The Final Master (2016) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Grandmaster Chen's Arrival

Grandmaster Chen arrives in Tianjin with aspirations of establishing a Wing Chun martial arts school. He is determined to bring the teachings of his ancestors into a new era as the last heir of the Wing Chun tradition.

Tianjin
2

Victory Over Zheng's Disciples

Chen faces off against Grandmaster Zheng's disciples in a series of martial arts challenges. After decisively defeating them, Chen expects to move forward, but Zheng has other plans in mind.

Tianjin
3

Zheng's Proposal

Following Chen's victories, Zheng proposes a partnership to establish a school together. Chen declines this tempting offer, sensing Zheng's ulterior motives, which sets the stage for further conflict.

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4

The Threat from Zheng

Zheng issues a serious challenge to Chen, demanding he train a disciple strong enough to defeat the eight schools of Tianjin. This ultimatum places immense pressure on Chen as he navigates his new environment.

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5

Proposal to Zhao

Amidst the pressures of martial arts rivalries, Chen proposes to Zhao, a local waitress. This moment of tenderness offers a brief respite from the escalating conflicts surrounding them.

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6

Attack by Thugs

Chen and Zhao's peace is shattered when they are attacked by local thugs. Demonstrating his formidable skills, Chen defeats them effortlessly, drawing attention from keen observers.

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7

Geng's Entrance

The rickshaw-puller Geng witnesses Chen's prowess and expresses a desire to train under him. Recognizing Geng's potential, Chen invites him to join his martial arts practice, beginning a significant mentorship.

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8

Geng's Rapid Progress

Under Chen's guidance, Geng rapidly excels in Wing Chun, achieving victories that exceed expectations. This progress, however, triggers the wrath of Madame Zou, the local crime lord.

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9

Retribution from Madame Zou

Madame Zou retaliates against Chen's successes, leading to increased tension between them. Chen is compelled to ensure Geng's safety, creating a rift with Zhao, who believes Chen has betrayed Geng.

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10

Confrontation with Zheng

Zheng faces a former pupil, Lin, who has become a military officer. Their public spar ends with Zheng's defeat, which is further complicated by Lin's secret alliance with Madame Zou.

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11

Zheng's Departure

After being ambushed and severely injured by Lin, Zheng decides to leave Tianjin for Brazil. This departure signals a shift in power dynamics as Chen remains behind to face growing threats.

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12

Attempted Escape

Chen and Geng plan to escape Tianjin due to the threats from Madame Zou. However, they are thwarted when she prevents their flight, intensifying their struggles against the looming danger.

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13

Geng's Tragic Fate

After being ambushed and sustaining a fatal stab wound, Geng chooses to return to town rather than seek help. Ultimately, this decision leads to Geng's death, devastating Chen and changing the course of events.

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14

The Day of the School Opening

On the day Chen's school is set to open, he learns about Geng's fate through a tea-girl. Overwhelmed with grief, Chen's emotions lead him to confront Lin during the ceremony, escalating the conflict.

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15

Final Confrontation

In a desperate bid for his life, Chen is pursued by martial arts masters from nineteen schools. In a decisive battle, he chooses to spare Madame Zou but remains unaware of Zhao's looming fate under Zou's manipulations.

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Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 16:41

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Final Master

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